The Manila Xperience

Filipino festival-goers witnessed the merging of music and fashion through bold runway shows scored by world-class musical performances. Manila X Festival, held on June 4th, had different shows curated by some of the country’s most sought-after celebrity stylists paired with live acts from brilliant and well-known musical artists and DJs.

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Welcoming the crowd were catchy beats from DJ Jess Milner. Once everyone was prepped, hip online retailer Zalora filled the runway with bold tribal prints and romantic night out pieces, pumped up by performances from up-and-coming band The Juans and singer-songwriter duo Thyro and Yumi.

This was followed by stylist John Paul Dizon’s sleek-themed show with ensembles worn by his models and celebrity clients and friends including Roxanne Barcelo, Koreen Medina, Pauline Mendoza, Phytos Ramirez, Yasser Mata, Ayra Mariano, Jake Ejercito, Wynwyn Marquez, and Lance Serrano. Keeping the vibe smooth and sophisticated were outstanding performances from Kiana Valenciano and Yeng Constantino, given an EDM twist by DJ Mars Miranda.

The third, Coachella-inspired show styled by Myrrh Lao To was paired with laidback hits from crowd-favorite Up Dharma Down. With soft chiffon and laces, the Coachella segment ended with Myrrh’s power squad of celebrity clients and friends starring Ylona Garcia, KZ Tandingan, K Brosas, Pokwang, and Angel Locsin.

The energy was brought back up by stylist duo Rain Dagala and Em Millan through youthful, editorial, street looks in their sportswear-dominated show. It was complemented by powerful, collaborative performances from Gloc 9 and DJ Badkiss.

With Bang Pineda’s flair for menswear, the stylist/designer went forward with a show presenting a legion of men imbibing the grunge spirit. Completing the vibe was a high-dosage rock performance from Kjwan led by vocalist Marc Abaya. DJs Marc Marasigan and duo Curse & Bless spun in between shows to keep everyone on their toes. To end the festival with a bang, DJs Tom Taus and Ace Ramos spun their best beats, making the crowd dance the night away.

Directed by Paolo Valenciano, Manila X came from the aspiration of Founder and Creative Director/Stylist John Lozano to give every Filipino access to fashion and styling, and, ultimately, help realize and embrace individuality.

The event was sponsored by makeup label BYS and powered by Zalora and TaskUs Philippines.